Football is an intense sport whether played professionally or just for fun – injuries happen often on the field, and first aid responders need to be ready to treat anything. Typical injuries include lacerations, sprains, fractures and concussions.
Injuries on the pitch can range from minor to life-threatening. If not treated quickly and effectively, even relatively minor injuries can cause lasting damage that leads to extended time away from the game.
Best first aid items for football players
Different football teams will have different first aid requirements, so a risk assessment will be necessary to get the best idea of what first aid requirements your team needs.
When conducting your risk assessment, you will need to consider your players’ health, playing ability and risk of injury during a match. The chance of an injury occurring will also be different depending on the age and size of your players, so bear this in mind when purchasing a football first aid kit.
Wound Dressings
Wound dressings help to protect minor wounds from dirt and bacteria, thereby facilitating the healing process. Minor cuts, scrapes and grazes happen often on the pitch, so it’s important to be well stocked with this versatile first aid item.Eye Dressings
Eye injuries are one of the most dangerous and potentially life-changing injuries that can happen during a game of football. Eye dressings protect an injured eye and slows bleeding while more advanced medical help is on the way.Low Adherent Dressings
Low adherent dressings prevent infection by providing a protective layer underneath adhesive dressings, covering the wound and facilitating a moist healing environment. They assist normal wound dressings to make sure minor wounds heal as quickly as possible.Conforming Bandages
Conforming bandages are breathable and lightweight wrappings that compress and secure wound dressings in place. They slow bleeding and help wounds to heal.Triangular Bandages
Triangular bandages are one of the most useful first aid items and are a must-have in any first aid kit. They can be used to treat wounds or provide support for injured limbs in the form of a sling.Washproof Plasters
Washproof plasters are the most convenient way to treat small wounds. They are adhesive, protect wounds from dirt and bacteria and create a moist wound healing environment. These plasters are ideal for football first aid kits as they are less likely to fall off from sweat.Microporous Tape
Microporous Tape is designed to fasten bandages and dressings while being flexible enough to allow freedom of movement while worn. These tapes are hypoallergenic and safe to use on the skin.Disposable Gloves
Disposable nitrile gloves ensures that direct skin content between players and first aiders is kept to a minimum. This protects both individuals from the transmission of infection-causing germs into wounds.Dressing Scissors
Dressing scissors allow users to cut and secure dressings, bandages and clothing that may be in the way.Safety Pins
Safety pins help to secure bandages and dressings in place while players are moving.Alcohol-free Wipes
Alcohol-free moist wipes are essential for ensuring wounds are as clean as possible before a dressing or plaster is applied to it. This helps to prevent infection and speed up the healing process.Foil Blankets
Foil blankets are heat-insulating mylar coverings that keep the wearer warm by reflecting their body heat. They are important to keep players’ body temperature consistent when they’re receiving first aid treatment.Instant Cold Packs
Instant cold packs provide immediate cold therapy to treat acute sprain and strain injuries. The cooling effect soothes pain and reduces swelling. As strains and sprains are some of the most common football injuries, cold packs are a must have in any football first aid kit.What are the most common injuries in football?
Being aware of the most common injuries to occur during a game a football will help you to keep an effective first aid kit. These include:- Sprained ankle or knee
- Foot or wrist fracture
- Concussion
- Hamstring, calf or groin strain
- Damage to ligaments
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About the author:
Jo Stokes is a writer, marketer and trained first aider at First Aid Online.
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By Jo Stokes
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